Frequently Asked Questions

We’re sure you have plenty of questions about Adelphi’s Commencement ceremony. We’ve prepared answers to some of the most common questions below.

What time should I plan to arrive at Commencement?

Please allow extra time for the delay created by a large number of people arriving at Northwell Health at Jones Beach Theater all at once. Students, faculty and guests all aim to arrive at 8:00 a.m. Arriving earlier than that is a good way to avoid the congestion. The main gates will open at 8:00 a.m.

What should I wear and what should I bring?

Spring weather at Jones Beach can vary widely from sunny and breezy to cold and rainy in May. Since Adelphi’s Commencement ceremony this year is outdoors, please dress comfortably, keeping in mind the weather. Please bring hats, sunscreen, raincoats, etc. as necessary.

What if it rains?

Adelphi’s Commencement will take place rain or shine. Participants should come prepared if inclement weather is expected on Commencement day.

What's the difference between graduation and Commencement?

Graduation is the process of being awarded a degree. Students expecting to receive a degree must first apply for graduation. Students who have completed degree requirements but who have not applied for graduation will not receive a diploma nor will the degree be conferred.

The Commencement ceremony is held each May after the spring semester concludes and is the event in which the achievement of the degree is recognized and celebrated by the University community and the students’ friends and families. All students wishing to participate in the Commencement exercises must fill out the online commencement application.

I don't plan to attend Commencement. Do I need to apply
for graduation?

Yes! Students who have completed degree requirements but who have not applied for graduation will not receive a diploma nor will the degree be conferred.

If I walk in the May ceremony, does that mean I graduated?

No. Participation in the Commencement ceremony does not mean you have met all requirements for graduation and are entitled to be awarded a degree at the time. Certification of transcripts must be completed before a degree is officially awarded.

When and where do I purchase my cap and gown?

Doctoral Candidates: Place your order using the attached form by April 7and have it shipped to your home, or to the Garden City campus Bookstore for pickup. The Bookstore will be open immediately following the Doctoral Hooding ceremony so that you can return your attire.

Garden City students: Purchase your academic attire, beginning at the Grad Fairs at the Garden City Bookstore (April 18/19 11:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.), and at the Bookstore all the way up until May 19! But: robes are sized; the earlier you purchase, the better your chance of getting a robe that fits!

Undergraduate candidates: Tassels go on the right side of your cap before you graduate. Near the end of the main ceremony, President Christine M. Riordan will announce the conferring of degrees and instruct you to “Move your tassels!” The undergraduates, joyfully and in unison, move their tassels to the left.

Candidates for master’s degrees and advanced certificates: Tassels go on the left side. You do not move the tassel; it remains on the left before, during and after graduating.

How long is the ceremony?

Commencement is two-and-a-half to three-hours long.

Will I have my photo taken when I receive my degree?

Graduates will be photographed at three different points by Island Photography.

Proofs will be emailed and mailed to your home within a week of the ceremony. A purchase may be made if you wish, but the final selection of photographs is an individual choice. It is important that you provide updated contact information on the yellow photographer’s card so that your photos are sent to the correct address. The customer service number for Island Photography is 800.869.0908.

Where's my diploma?

Each degree candidate will be handed a diploma case upon arrival at the stage for the stage and portrait photos.

Degrees are officially awarded after certification of transcripts and the printing of the diplomas. Diplomas will be mailed to graduates six-to-eight weeks after the degree is conferred. Again, you must apply for graduation. Students who have completed degree requirements but who have not applied for graduation will not receive a diploma nor will the degree be conferred. Diplomas will not be mailed to students with holds on their accounts.

Will there be a sign language interpreter at the ceremony?

An American Sign Language Interpreter (ASL) will be visible on a large screen by the stage. Guests requiring further visual access to the interpreters must reserve seating in advance. For reservations, email sao@adelphi.edu or call 516.877.3145.

My guests require special assistance. What accommodations
are available, and where can I find more information?

Please see the seating diagram showing ADA symbols for wheelchair seating locations. NOTE: only students may be seated in sections A, B, and C. If you or your guests require special assistance, contact our Student Access Office.

Will my Adelphi email account terminate after I graduate?

If you continue to use your account and log in monthly, it will never terminate.

Where may I order diploma frames, class rings and Adelphi commemorative items?